A coastal city in northeast Sicily, home to a historic university and a major seaport. This transport hub connects Sicily to mainland Italy and beyond.
Messina sits on Sicily's northeastern tip, connecting the island to mainland Italy. You can explore the city's Norman cathedral, watch the intricate astronomical clock in action, and relax in lively piazzas. From Messina, you can climb Mount Etna's volcanic slopes, walk Taormina's ancient streets, or sail to the Aeolian Islands. The city's position on the strait between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas has shaped its development over time.
Messina's Historic Center Highlights
Begin your visit in Piazza del Duomo, where you'll find the city's most recognizable landmarks. The Norman-style Cathedral of Messina, originally built in the 12th century, has undergone several reconstructions due to earthquakes and wars. Inside, you'll see Italy's second-largest pipe organ and detailed mosaics.
Adjacent to the cathedral, the 60-meter Bell Tower houses the world's largest astronomical clock. At noon daily, bronze mechanical figures activate, depicting scenes from Messina's past. The 12-minute performance attracts many onlookers, so arrive early for a good view.
Also in the square stands the Fontana di Orione, a Renaissance sculpture masterpiece. Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli created this 16th-century fountain, which portrays Orion, Messina's mythical founder.
Exploring Beyond Messina
From Messina, you can easily reach other parts of eastern Sicily. A 45-minute drive south takes you to Taormina, a hilltop town with an ancient Greek theater and views of the coast and Mount Etna. The 3rd century BC theater hosts performances in summer months.
Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano, rises over 3,300 meters above sea level. You can join guided hikes to explore its moon-like terrain, lava caves, and fuming craters. In winter, you can even ski on the volcano's slopes.
From Messina's port, you can take hydrofoils to the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On Lipari, you'll find an archaeological museum. Stromboli has an active volcano you can observe, and on Salina, you can explore green landscapes and learn about sweet Malvasia wine production.
Tasting Messina's Local Flavors
In Messina, you'll find dishes that reflect both maritime and Sicilian culinary traditions. Try pasta alla Messinese, made with eggplant, tomatoes, and ricotta salata cheese. Pesce spada alla ghiotta is a local dish of swordfish prepared with capers, olives, and tomatoes.
For a quick bite, look for arancini – fried rice balls with meat ragù or mozzarella filling. Finish your meal with cannoli, crispy pastry tubes containing sweet ricotta cream, or granita, a semi-frozen treat available in flavors like almond, lemon, or coffee.
The nearby Etna DOC wine region produces wines from its volcanic soil. Many wineries offer tours and tastings where you can sample local varieties such as Nerello Mascalese and Carricante.
Navigating Messina
You can walk around Messina's compact city center easily. For longer trips, use the city's bus network or modern tram line. Taxis are available, but confirm the fare before your ride begins.
To explore beyond the city, consider renting a car for flexibility. Be aware of narrow streets in historic areas and winding mountain roads. Trains connect Messina to other major Sicilian cities, and ferries run regularly to the Italian mainland and Aeolian Islands.
